Used as a chiral building block, specifically the (R)-enantiomer, in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and antidepressants. Its enantiomeric purity makes it valuable for creating active ingredients with high selectivity and reduced side effects. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis to introduce chirality into more complex molecules. Also utilized in the preparation of bioactive compounds and intermediates for drug discovery research.